Ho, Ho, Whoa! My aching back!
Yes, ‘tis the season for those nagging back pains that can really interrupt your busy schedule of parties, family visits, assembly of swing sets, cleaning, decorating, wrestling with a tree, sleeping in beds that aren’t yours when you travel, riding in the car…Need I say more? If you have back or neck issues, this is a prime season for them to remind you of their presence—like you really needed a reminder.
I’m not trying to rain on your parade, but for you to have the most fun this holiday season, need to take care of yourself.
When you absolutely must bend over, remember to keep your back straight and use your thigh and leg muscles to get up and down. This will save some wear and tear on the back.
Whenever possible, like when wrapping presents, put your work on a table or counter and work standing instead of sitting cross-legged on the floor like you did when you were a kid. It’s more comfortable, and you may be able to walk upright afterwards.
If you are traveling, you may sleep on a foreign mattress that may be unfriendly to your cause, or to your back. You can’t take your home mattress around with you, but you can take your pillow. At least keep your neck supported in a familiar manner. This might prevent some neck pain and headache when you are supposed to be relaxing and having fun. There are enough headaches in the world, right?
If you are in the car sitting for a while, make up excuses to pull over every hour or so to stretch your legs and move those back muscles. We like to keep something to sip when traveling, and that provides a periodic need to pull over anyway!
Use luggage with wheels. You know, of all the items I have personally invented, I am especially proud of the wheel. It makes life so much easier.
Consider asking for help with heavy stuff, even if you are a man. This is really easy when you have children who may be led to believe Santa is watching. That sounds creepy to adults, but use it to save your back. By the time they catch on, maybe they will have forgotten your ruse.
I hope all of you have a wonderful holiday season. Take a moment to watch those puppies under the Christmas tree on Comcast (look up “Yule Dogs”) and laugh. Relax some, find a crackling fire, sip something flavorful, and reflect on your blessings and their Source, from Whom all blessings flow.
I’ll be here for you if you’re still sore.
